Mobility Lifts

Mobility Lifts

Transporting your mobility scooter or powerchair doesn't have to be difficult if you have the right mobility lift. There are several different types of mobility lifts to fit your needs best; mobility lifts for different vehicles, mobility lifts for inside the vehicle, mobility lifts for outside the vehicle, mobility lift platforms and hoists, and more. Using the right mobility lift will bring you even more freedom to roam as you please.

Scooter Vs Powerchair Lifts

When looking for a mobility lift, the first thing you need to determine is which mobility aid you'll be transporting and which mobility lift will be the best fit. Using the corresponding mobility lift will ensure the safety of your mobility aid, the mobility lift, and the user.

Scooter & Powerchair Lift

The scooter and powerchair lift is a combo lift, so if you swap your mobility device from a mobility scooter and a powerchair, this combo mobility lift will be your best option. These lifts usually use hold-down arms or flexible tie downs and may have an adjustable platform. Since this mobility lift must accommodate both devices, it's generally a heavier lift and may require a higher hitch class or stronger vehicle.

Scooter Lift

If you exclusively use a mobility scooter, it's best to look for a scooter lift. Scooter lifts are sized to carry 3 wheel or 4 wheel scooters. The platform and tie downs are optimized to hold and secure mobility scooters. The scooter lift is smaller in size, lighter in weight, and generally cheaper than the combo lift. Scooter lifts are easy to install and put less strain on your vehicle's hitch or suspension.

Power Chair Lift

If you only use a power chair, you are best to purchase a power chair lift. The power chair lift is designed for rear-wheel, mid-wheel, and front-wheel drive chairs. The platform size, tie-downs, and cradle points match the powerchair's shape and wheelbase, making it the most secure option. Power Chair lifts have reinforced frames and motors to handle heavier power chairs.

Manual Wheelchair Lift

If you use a manual wheelchair, opt for the manual wheelchair lift. Manual wheelchair lifts are cheaper, take up less space, and are much lighter in weight. These mobility lifts are easy to install, use, and require less maintenance.

Mobility Lift Type

There are three main mobility lift types. Things to consider for the lift type is your passenger/cargo space, installation, and if you want your mobility device protected.

Inside Vehicle Lift

The inside vehicle lift is when the mobility lift is inside the vehicle. The inside vehicle lift is a great option for someone who wants to protect their mobility aid from the outside elements. An inside vehicle lift might be in the trunk, cargo area, or passenger space in a van. The inside vehicle lift keeps your scooter or powerchair discreet, so it reduces the risk of theft. The inside vehicle lift generally has a harder installation process, but it's a custom fit just for your vehicle, making it secure, safe, and easy to operate.

Outside Vehicle Lift

The outside vehicle lift is placed outside the vehicle, usually attached to the hitch receiver. With the outside vehicle lift, your mobility aid is exposed to the outside elements, but you get to keep your passenger and cargo space.

Trailer

If you want the best of both worlds, you'd like to keep all your space in your vehicle and want your scooter protected from the outside elements, you might like a trailer. There are trailers specifically made to haul mobility scooters, such as the Scoota Trailer. Also, many small vehicles are unable to support a lift and the trailer is a solution that works regardless of the vehicle type.

Manual Or Electric Lifts

Depending on budget, power source, physical effort, vehicle type and which mobility aid you have will help determine if a manual or an electric lift will be better for you.

Manual Lifts

Manual lifts are the cheaper option, but they require more work on the user's end. The user (or caregiver) will need to physically load and secure the mobility device onto the manual lift. Many people who use manual lifts have manual wheelchairs or folding scooters.

Electric Lifts

Electric lifts are the more expensive option, but they don't require much effort from the user. These mobility lifts are usually controlled by a hand remote or switch. The lift does everything else. The electric lifts are the most user-friendly. These are a great option for those who are using non-folding mobility scooters and power wheelchairs.

Mobility Lift Style

The style of the mobility lift will depend on how the mobility aid is lifted and secured. The style of the lift may also be dependent on the vehicle you plan on using the lift with.

Platform

The inside hybrid lift is one of the most popular lift styles. A platform lift is a type of mobility lift that uses a flat, motorized platform to carry a scooter or powerchair into or onto a vehicle. These lifts are available in outside, inside, and hybrid styles, and are one of the most convenient options for transporting heavier mobility devices with minimal effort. The platform lift is available for outdoor and indoor vehicle lifts, though you'll see the outdoor lift the most.

Boom (Hoist) Lift

The boom lift, also known as the hoist lift, uses a crane-like arm to lift the mobility device and swing it into place. The hoist-style lift is mainly used in the trunks of cars or the beds of trucks. The hoist-style lift does require some manual work to get the mobility aid attached and secured.

Trusted Lift Brands

Not all lift brands are the same. You want one that is durable, reliable, and safe for you and your mobility aid. At Scooter Direct, we only carry the trusted lift brands, to make sure you're never stranded anywhere.

Harmar Lift

Harmar is one of the top brands of mobility lifts. With a wide range of lifts to choose from, you'll be able to find a Harmar lift that fits your needs: platform lifts, hoist lifts, and hybrid lifts. Harmar lifts are designed and made right here in the US, so it's made of quality work.

Finding The Right Mobility Lift For You

Finding the right mobility lift will determine your mobility device, vehicle, and how and where you prefer to load and unload your mobility aid. Here are some of our recommendations:

Scooter Lift for Car

If you're looking for a scooter lift for a car, the TriLift Mobility Carrier is a great option. Unlike traditional platform lifts, this scooter lift for a car keeps your vehicle looking clean and compact while still offering strong support and stability for your scooter. Its triangular docking system locks your scooter directly into place, eliminating the need for bulky tie-downs or clumsy ramps. With just the push of a button, the TriLift raises your scooter securely off the ground and keeps it firmly in position. This scooter lift for cars also is one of the lightest hitch-mounted lifts available, which means less strain on your vehicle and better ground clearance.

Lift for Scooter in SUV

If you're in need of a lift for a scooter in an SUV, the Harmar AL425 Axis II Fully Powered Inside Lift is a great choice. This lift for a scooter in an SUV is a hoist-style lift that fits in the cargo space in the back. With no manual effort, the AL425 automatically lifts and swings your scooter or power wheelchair into position, all from a handheld wired control (with optional wireless remote). This lift for a scooter in an SUV only weighs 90 lbs, so it doesn't put any strain on your vehicle.

Lift For Van

If you drive a van and are interested in a lift for a van, we recommend the Harmar AL6000 Hybrid Platform Lift. This lift for van is compatible for both mobility scooters and powerchairs and handles up to 350 lbs (if your mobility aid weighs more, check into the AL6000HD). The lift extends outside the vehicle on sliding aluminum rails. To load, you roll on your device externally, then the lift automatically retracts it inside.

Scooter Lift For Trucks

The Harmar AL815CC Crew Cab Pickup Lift is a great scooter lift for trucks. This hoist-style lift is installed in the bed of the truck and lifts your mobility aid into the bed. It offers fast, effortless loading and unloading of lightweight mobility devices, like manual wheelchairs, small scooters, or compact powerchairs with a weight capacity up to 135 lbs. What sets the AL815CC apart is its "150 Speed" performance, which operates nearly twice as fast as similar models, saving valuable time for daily users.

Hitch-Mounted Scooter Lift

Many people prefer the hitch-mounted scooter lift, as it requires no vehicle modifications. These lifts typically feature a powered platform that raises and secures your scooter with the push of a button, making them ideal for users who want quick, independent operation. They're compatible with most cars, SUVs, vans, and trucks, and can usually be installed without professional help.

The Harmar AL100 Universal Scooter Lift is one of the most popular hitch-mounted scooter lifts. With a fully-powered lift and fold-away design, the AL100 scooter lift supports scooters up to 350 lbs and accommodates wheelbases as long as 42 in, thanks to its spacious 26″ × 39″ platform and adjustable cradle. Weighing around 83 lb, the AL100 scooter lift installs easily on Class II or III hitches and folds compactly to preserve rear visibility and ground clearance.

The AL100 includes a built-in automatic hold‑down foot and wheel cradle, so no scooter modifications or straps are needed.

Purchasing from Scooter Direct

Purchasing a mobility lift from Scooter Direct means you're choosing expert guidance, trusted brands, and a smooth, supportive buying experience. We specialize in mobility solutions, offering only high-quality lifts from top manufacturers, carefully vetted for performance, reliability, and compatibility. Our team doesn't just sell products; we educate customers through detailed guides, comparisons, and personalized recommendations to help match the right lift to your vehicle and mobility aid. Whether you're looking for a hitch-mounted platform, an inside hoist lift, or a hybrid solution, Scooter Direct makes it easy to find the best fit for your needs. At Scooter Direct, we're committed to making your journey toward greater mobility simple, safe, and stress-free.

Mobility Lift FAQ

Can I install a mobility lift myself?

Some lifts, especially hitch-mounted models, can be installed by the user with basic tools and instructions. However, hybrid lifts and inside-mounted hoist systems typically require professional installation or someone who is very handy to ensure safe wiring and secure mounting.

Do I need a special vehicle to use a mobility lift?

Not necessarily. Many vehicles—including cars, SUVs, vans, and trucks—can support mobility lifts as long as they meet certain requirements like hitch class, interior cargo space, and vehicle weight capacity. Our team can help you determine which lifts are compatible with your specific make and model.

Will a lift work with my mobility scooter or wheelchair?

Most lifts are designed to work with a wide range of devices, but size and weight do matter. It's important to know the weight, length, and width of your mobility aid when selecting a lift. Some lifts are universal, while others require specific brackets or adapters. Harmar offers a Vehicle Compatibility Calculator, https://calculator.harmar.com/ to assist with this decision.

Can I still access my trunk or tailgate with a lift installed?

Yes, many outside lifts offer swing-away arms or folding platforms that allow you to open your trunk or hatch when the lift is not in use. For full trunk access, inside or hybrid lifts may be the better choice.

What kind of maintenance does a mobility lift require?

Most mobility lifts require minimal maintenance, but regular inspections are recommended. Keep the platform clean and free of debris, check all securing points and cables regularly, and follow any lubrication guidelines listed in your lift's manual.

Will a mobility lift affect my vehicle's fuel efficiency or handling?

A lift, especially with a device attached, can slightly affect fuel economy and handling due to added weight and drag. It's important to stay within your vehicle's tongue weight and towing capacity. Choosing a low-profile or lightweight lift can help minimize the impact.